The JRN Blog

Naturalistic landscapes use intentional layers of trees, shrubs, grasses and perennials to create dynamic gardens with year-round interest.

Summer at James River Nurseries has its own soundtrack: equipment, irrigation, insects, crews and the steady rhythm of landscape work.

The James River Nurseries team enjoyed a night at CarMax Park, seeing their finished landscape work and cheering on the Richmond Flying Squirrels.

See how JRN transformed a residential landscape over a decade with lush planting, privacy screening, synthetic turf, and a custom putting green.

James River Nurseries is working with Oyster Point Construction to create the landscape for the new Bensley Elementary School campus.

The best fall landscapes begin with summer planning. Learn why Richmond homeowners should start design and scheduling conversations early.

The Park at River City Sportsplex shows how inclusive play, landscape and gathering spaces can turn a public site into a true community destination.

From vibrant annuals and dependable perennials to specimen trees, plant material remains at the heart of the work at James River Nurseries.

A thoughtful landscape transformation created a garden for reflection, restoration and healing at VCU Health in downtown Richmond.

Keep residential and commercial landscapes healthy through Virginia summer heat with smart watering, selective pruning and priority care for young trees.

James River Nurseries helped bring The Park at River City Sportsplex to life with landscape construction supporting inclusive recreation in Chesterfield County.

Explore practical landscape strategies for drought resilience, including shade trees, mulch, stormwater features and climate-adapted plants.

James River Nurseries recognizes first-quarter safety award winners Ruben, Alexis and Rene for helping build a culture of safety on every job site.

Learn why matching plants to sun, soil, drainage and space is the foundation of healthier, lower-maintenance landscapes in Central Virginia.

A team cookout at James River Nurseries celebrated the hardworking people and family-minded culture behind every Central Virginia landscape project.

James River Nurseries supplied plants for Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden's 7.5-acre expansion, including a garden featuring 20,000+ plants and 100+ species.

Looking for the best shade trees for Richmond and Central Virginia? Explore Willow Oak, Red Maple and Black Gum, plus tips for choosing and planting the right tree.

Learn about native Carolina Silverbell trees and the benefits of native tree planting as James River Nurseries adds two new trees to Sydney Park in Richmond, VA.

See how the landscape at The Forum Hotel at UVA's Darden School of Business has matured, from layered plantings and trees to bluestone and natural stone.

Explore how James River Nurseries used thoughtful soil preparation, native and non-invasive plants, and sustainable installation practices at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.

See how James River Nurseries is helping bring new landscapes to life at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden through large-scale meadow and planting installation.

Bring the golf course home with a custom backyard putting green. James River Nurseries designs and installs putting greens and synthetic turf in Richmond, VA.

See how James River Nurseries helped bring CarMax Park in Richmond, VA to life with commercial landscape construction, hardscape installation and planting.

JRN uses Dutchman tree spades to excavate balled-and-burlapped trees with less than 5% mortality over 10 years. Why this method beats bare-root for mature trees.

87 degrees, then snow, then shorts weather. What Virginia weather whiplash does to your plants — and what to do (and not do) when a late freeze hits.

Spring has arrived in Central Virginia. Here's what JRN recommends for spring planting, refreshing beds, and setting your Richmond landscape up for a healthy year.

Every landscape starts in the shop. JRN's mechanic team repairs before spring season begins.

Here's why the best spring landscape installs in Richmond, VA start with winter planning.

Discover the top 2026 landscape trends shaping Central Virginia outdoor spaces — from edible landscaping and climate-adapted plants to intentional outdoor living design and multifunctional landscapes.

JRN team members joined the CVNLA Workday at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden alongside TrueTimber Arborists and John Richmond Landscaping. How the Virginia green industry gives back.

James River Nurseries has been a Richmond, VA landscape construction firm since 1983. Inside the heritage, craft, and continuity that define JRN's work.

The four most common landscape mistakes that landscape professionals see in Virginia yards that damage plant health and shorten landscape lifespan, and how to avoid them.

James River Nurseries is a proud sponsor of the 2026 Winter Symposium and 57th CVNLA Short Course. Why ongoing horticultural education matters for our team.

Behind every great hardscape is hand-setting, careful leveling, and constant adjustment. Why JRN's detail-focused approach makes Richmond hardscapes last.

When winter weather hits Richmond, JRN's team is out plowing and clearing snow at Libbie Mill Midtown so residents and visitors can move safely. Commercial snow services.

JRN is installing buffer screening at the former Dooms Speedway, now a Dominion Energy laydown yard in Waynesboro, VA. How thoughtful screening softens industrial sites.

JRN designed and installed the stage landscape for the 54th Virginia Agribusiness Council Annual Legislative Appreciation Banquet, attended by Virginia's top officials.

JRN is partnering with the Town of Ashland on the Ashland TREE Project, providing 100 free trees to residents and businesses through the VA Trees for Clean Water grant.

Six winter-wise landscape tips from JRN's horticulturalists for Central Virginia gardens, including watering, mulch, evergreen care, and drainage.

James River Nurseries is leading site work, curb and gutter, sidewalks, and bluestone patios at CoStar's new Richmond campus. Inside a major commercial build.

Discover the top four hollies landscape designers recommend for Central Virginia. Which holly varieties thrive in Richmond’s climate and how to choose the best one for you!

Pink Muhly Grass has become a favorite among homeowners and landscape designers alike. This stunning low-maintenance grass adds texture and fall beauty to any Virginia landscape.

See the landscape progress on this Port Royal waterfront residence designed by David Lisowski of Balzer & Associates. Tree planting, privacy buffers, shrubs, and sod by James River Nurseries.

See the completed Three Chopt landscape project featuring custom hardscapes, large-scale plant material, and a full sod installation designed by Eric at James River Nurseries.

James River Nurseries continues landscape progress at Libbie Mill with new condo streetscapes and a pollinator pathway featuring Distylium, Catmint, Gaura, and native plantings.

JRN transformed a backyard that blends fun and function in landscape design.

JRN Project, Taylor Farm Park, Wins 2025 Innovation in Park Design Award

Explore this backyard renovation in Midlothian with a natural stone patio, water feature, and lush plantings—built for relaxation and outdoor connection.

At James River Nurseries, we’re a family-feel workplace that values each individual. See highlights from our Friday cookout and why JRN is a great place to build your career.

Project Spotlight: James River Nurseries helped shape the landscape at Springline at District 60—a five-story, 150,000 SF Class A office anchor in Chesterfield’s new mixed-use district.

We hosted the Virginia ASLA for a Native Plant Walk at our Richmond nursery—spotlighting how Virginia native plants deliver beauty, biodiversity, and low-maintenance design.

Three years after installation, our Libbie Avenue commercial landscape is thriving. See how smart design, durable materials, and region-appropriate plants deliver lasting results.

James River Nurseries is creating a unique Powhatan landscape with natural stone steps and a boulder wall—blending design with the land’s natural beauty.

James River Nurseries refreshed the Governor’s Mansion with a new accessible sidewalk. Learn how our hardscape solutions combine beauty, function, and durability.

See how James River Nurseries is transforming a Three Chopt home with expert hardscaping and plantings. Partnering with Mark Franko Custom Building.

Spring is blooming in Kilmarnock! Discover how James River Nurseries blended native plants, custom patios, and historic charm into a stunning riverfront landscape.

Discover the benefits of outdoor porcelain pavers with James River Nurseries—durable, stylish, skid-resistant, and perfect for patios, pools, and rooftops.

Mulch does more than look good—it retains moisture, suppresses weeds, and completes every landscape installation at James River Nurseries.

Is your yard outdated or soggy? Discover 3 signs you need a spring landscape refresh and how James River Nurseries can help transform your space.

Explore an irregular stone hardscape in Three Chopt blending natural materials with historic preservation for a timeless, organic outdoor design.

Viburnum adds year-round beauty to Virginia landscapes. Learn why this hardy shrub is a client favorite and how we use it in our designs.

Learn what to prune in early spring—and what to leave alone—for healthier plants and better blooms all season long.

JRN installs mature trees at Virginia Randolph, bringing instant shade and beauty. Learn how large caliper trees can elevate your next project.

James River Nurseries planted 1,150 trees with Henrico’s H.E.A.R.T. Crew to support reforestation and long-term environmental sustainability.

Learn why calling 811 before you dig is essential. JRN crews stay sharp with safety training for a secure, successful spring season.

Discover expert-recommended trees for Central VA! Thuja 'Junior Giant' & more, grown & installed by JRN. Over 40 years of expertise. Learn more!

Discover what to prune in Central Virginia from late winter to early spring for healthier trees and vibrant gardens. Follow our expert guide for top tips!

As we wrap up 2024, we reflect on a year of gratitude and growth, celebrating the trust and support of our incredible clients and partners. Join us as we look ahead to an exciting 2025 filled with new opportunities and milestones. Stay tuned!

Discover how James River Nurseries is helping transform the Hotchkiss Community Center in Richmond into a thriving urban greenspace.

Our incredible team came together to share delicious food, laughter, and the joy of being part of a supportive work family. Happy Thanksgiving!

Perfect for high-traffic areas, pet zones, or putting greens, modern turf offers year-round beauty, low maintenance, and no muddy spots. Learn more about a stunning, hassle-free lawn

Farewell to Phil Silver after 24 years! We welcome Michael Gundlach as our new Controller, a Richmond local with deep roots in JRN and construction finance.

Discover our expert, Sharon Baum's tips, on planning your hardscape project with James River Nurseries. Learn what to consider before starting your project and how to prepare for your site visit to create the outdoor space of your dreams.

Discover expert fall maintenance tips for paver care from John Guidon at James River Nurseries. Learn how to prevent weed growth, manage joint erosion, and fix loose or shifting pavers.

Discover how James River Nurseries transformed the landscape at Coalfield Reserve Apartments, while preserving wetlands for privacy and serenity.

Discover Henrico's new 99-acre Taylor Farm Park! Featuring a skatepark, spray park, playground, and more. Proudly landscaped by James River Nurseries.

Keep your garden thriving this summer with our maintenance tips. From weeding to watering, ensure a vibrant landscape. Contact James River Nurseries for expert help!

Plan your fall landscaping now! Whether residential, commercial, or a developer, our experts handle design to build.

James River Nurseries rejuvenates the UNOS Memorial Garden with new plantings, benches, and stones, creating a tranquil space that honors memories and nurtures the future.

JRN hosted Goochland High School students for hands-on demos in hardscapes and tree digging. Inspiring the next generation of landscaping professionals!

Celebrate the legacy of Secretariat with the unveiling of his bronze statue at Ashland's Secretariat Reynolds Family Plaza. Join us for Secretariat Day this Saturday!

Showcasing career opportunities at JRN! We had an enriching time engaging with Goochland HS students at their Career Fair. Go Bulldogs!

Mike Hildebrand wins VNLA Distinguished Professional of the Year! 🎉 Join us in celebrating his unmatched dedication to advancing the nursery and landscape industry.

Winter is the perfect season for tree planting! James River Nurseries is preparing Richmond landscapes for spring with new trees planted during the dormant phase.

James River Nurseries teams up with Homeplaces, Ltd. to landscape a custom home in Kinloch. Designed by Eric Schlosser, this winter project will look stunning in spring!

James River Nurseries unveils a stunning transformation at Dominion Energy Plaza, featuring sleek hardscaping and a revamped entrance for The Heart of Virginia Council, Boy Scouts of America.

James River Nurseries celebrated an epic Work Family Christmas bash, reminding us how lucky we are to have such an amazing team. Merry Christmas to our JRN stars!

Discover James River Nurseries' recently completed large-scale landscape construction at Capitol Square, enhancing Richmond's historic beauty and accessibility.

James River Nurseries celebrated the season at The Santa Spot in Richmond, creating cherished memories with our incredible team and their families. Happy Holidays!

Discover the transformation of the historic Westhampton School into the vibrant Westhampton Commons. James River Nurseries is proud to enhance this mixed-use development with beautiful landscaping, preserving Richmond's rich history while fostering a thriving community.

Discover how James River Nurseries transformed the landscape of the new Virginia ABC Headquarters in Hanover County. Learn about this state-of-the-art facility and its impact on Virginia's beverage industry.

James River Nurseries’ hardscape team is dedicated to creating a stunning outdoor space for the Hyatt House Oceanfront in Virginia Beach. See how we’re bringing this beautiful project to life, from the pool to the final design!

Our skilled team, equipped with the latest machinery like the CAT 302 Mini Excavator, ensures careful and precise work on historic homes in Central Virginia, protecting their integrity while delivering exceptional results.

James River Nurseries volunteers time and plant material to transform the stage at the Virginia Agribusiness Council Dinner. Learn about our contributions to this annual event, supporting Virginia's top private industry.

Photos are in from our Team BBQ this month! We had such an amazing time and it was so nice to be back together in person again! We are so grateful for our amazing team!

Discover the stunning interiors and outdoor amenities at Wellsmith Apartments, the newest addition to Libbie Mill. James River Nurseries is proud to continue our landscaping role in this exciting project, working alongside top industry partners.

Celebrate Pollinator Week 2021 with James River Nurseries and support the health and well-being of essential pollinators. June 21st-27th.

Belmont Golf Course's transformation by James River Nurseries brings community together with an inclusive, historic, and innovative space for golfers of all ages.

Discover the beauty and functionality of rain chains! Learn how James River Nurseries helped a Chesterfield County homeowner add a unique touch to their outdoor space using these traditional Japanese chain gutters. Explore this creative landscaping project in our latest blog post.

Considering a new patio, driveway, courtyard, or walkway? Discover why pavers might be the perfect choice! From durability to design versatility, James River Nurseries' expert hardscape team can bring your vision to life.